The status check confirms the date and mileage of the last test and the expiry date. It also shows details of previous MOTs back to 2005. Records before 2005 weren't computerised.

Test fees

The Government (Department for Transport) sets the maximum fee that can be charged for an MOT.

Currently £54.85 for a car.

Maximum fees are set to take account of the time a test should take and the costs associated with being an MOT tester.

The 'certificate'

The paper document you get from the garage is just your receipt, though it is still widely referred to as a certificate. It’s not proof of an MOT.

The official record – dates, mileage, location and any advisory work noted at the time – is held online and is connected to all MOT testing stations.

Mileage

Your MOT 'certificate' will show the mileage at up to three previous MOT tests as well as the latest one. This is to help beat ‘clocking’,where a vehicle’s mileage is fraudulently reduced to increase its value.

If it’s your car:

Check the mileage on the 'certificate' when you collect the car

If the garage has made a mistake the system will only allow them to correct it within seven days

Any error, if missed can affect your car’s value or make it harder to sell.

These were the main changes:

If you've got one of these warning lights then it must now work correctly:

Electronic parking brake

Electronic stability control

Headlight main beam warning light

Electronic power steering warning light

Brake fluid level warning light

Seat belt pre-tensioner warning light

If a steering lock was fitted as standard it must be present and working.

The power steering fluid level must be above the minimum level indicated on the reservoir.

Lighting

Products on the lens or light source that obviously reduce the light's intensity or change its colour are now a reason for failure.

HID headlights can cause dazzle if they are dirty or aimed too high. Where HID or LED dipped beam headlamps are fitted the tester will check the operation of any headlamp levelling and cleaning devices fitted.